NBA Notes: Kings, Malik Monk, Bulls, Matas Buzelis, Hawks

Kings

After spending an extended stretch outside Doug Christie’s rotation, Malik Monk has resurfaced in a meaningful way for the Kings.

Monk logged 26 and 32 minutes in back-to-back wins over Houston and the Lakers, scoring 15 and 26 points, respectively, as Sacramento pulled off a pair of unexpected upsets.

The timing is notable. ESPN sources say the Kings explored Monk’s trade market last summer, including multiple frameworks that would have sent him to the Warriors for Jonathan Kuminga. Golden State declined, and there’s no indication that stance has changed.

Still, Monk is expected to remain available to the rest of the league ahead of the deadline, and his recent surge could modestly improve his value.

Bulls

Second-year forward Matas Buzelis has emerged as the brightest spot in a turbulent season for the Bulls.

With Josh Giddey injured and Coby White appearing in only two of the past six games, Buzelis has taken on a larger offensive role and thrived.

Since Dec. 31, Buzelis is averaging 19.8 points, 5.8 rebounds, three assists, and 1.8 blocks while shooting 47.9 percent from the field, per ESPN. Chicago has a favorable upcoming slate against Utah, Brooklyn (twice), and the Clippers, but Tuesday’s loss to Houston left the Bulls at 18-21 through 39 games for a fourth straight season.

Hawks

Before Tuesday’s loss to the Lakers, the post-Trae Young era had shown encouraging signs for the Hawks, including three straight wins and road victories over Denver and Golden State.

The additions of CJ McCollum and Corey Kispert should help stabilize a roster that has been ravaged by injuries.

Atlanta was short-handed again against Los Angeles, missing Kristaps Porzingis, Luke Kennard, and Zaccharie Risacher, and dressing just 10 players.

Frontcourt size looms as a potential deadline focus. The Hawks rank 25th in rebounding percentage and have allowed the eighth-most points in the paint.